Introduction
The Molar duck, commercially known in Egypt as "Mule duck," is a hybrid breed specialized in meat production. This type is considered one of the best duck breeds for fattening due to its rapid growth rate and high-quality meat.
Definition and Origin
What is a Molar Duck?
The Molar duck is a hybrid resulting from the cross between:
- Male: Muscovy duck
- Female: Pekin duck
Artificial insemination is used due to the difficulty of natural mating caused by the significant size difference between the two species.
Reason for the Name
It's called "Mule duck" because it is sterile and cannot reproduce, just like a mule (hybrid of horse and donkey). It does not lay eggs or incubate, but is raised solely for meat production.
Original Habitat
France is the original homeland of the Molar duck, where its fat is used in multiple industries including pharmaceutical products.
The Fattening Cycle
Time Duration
- Commercial Projects: 60 days (8-10 weeks)
- Home Breeding: 3-6 months
The fattening cycle is short compared to Muscovy ducks, reaching approximately half the duration.
Feed Requirements
Each Molar duck needs throughout the complete fattening cycle:
- 8-9 kilograms of feed (in commercial projects)
- This amount decreases in home breeding where ducks rely on diverse food sources
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
Production Benefits
- Fast Growth: Among the fastest-growing ducks with excellent feed conversion
- Short Fattening Cycle: Half the duration of Muscovy fattening
- Low-Fat Meat: Unlike Pekin duck
Behavioral and Health Benefits
- Quiet Temperament: Does not make noise like Pekin ducks
- Strong Immunity: Has a robust immune system
- Excellent Climate Adaptation: Withstands climate fluctuations and high temperatures
Economic Benefits
- Higher Selling Price: Sells at a higher price than Pekin in markets
- Multiple Uses: Its fat is used in pharmaceutical and food industries
Disadvantages
Economic Drawbacks
- High Chick Price: Initial purchase cost is high
- High Production Costs: Due to artificial insemination
- Limited Trading Profits: For traders due to high prices
Production Drawbacks
- No Egg Production: Cannot be used for breeding purposes
- Low Hatch Rate: Due to artificial insemination
- Longer Incubation Period: Takes 30 days instead of 28 days
Hatching Process
Egg Handling
- Positioning: Eggs are stacked tilted, not flat (as with Muscovy)
- Turning: Treated like Pekin eggs in terms of turning
Required Conditions
Molar duck eggs require the same hatching conditions as Muscovy eggs:
- Temperature: Similar to Muscovy
- Humidity: Same humidity levels as Muscovy
- Ventilation and Cooling: According to Muscovy requirements
Hatching Period
- Total Duration: 30 full days (two additional days compared to Pekin)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does a typical mule duck fattening cycle last?
The cycle ranges between 8-10 weeks (approximately 60 days) in commercial projects, allowing for healthy and gradual weight gain.
2. Can I integrate natural foraging into their diet during the fattening cycle?
Yes, allowing ducks to forage for natural food enhances mental health and enriches their diet, contributing to a well-rounded nutritional profile.
3. Are there specific weight milestones to track during the fattening cycle?
It's essential to monitor weight gain rates to ensure ducks reach optimal weight without excessive fat accumulation. Regular weighing helps maintain ideal body condition.
4. What role does sunlight play in the Molar duck fattening process?
Adequate exposure to sunlight is essential for Vitamin D synthesis and maintaining overall health during the fattening period.
5. How does the mule duck fattening cycle differ for meat production?
The cycle can be adjusted according to the desired weight and meat quality for the final product, with flexibility in duration and feeding strategies.
6. How can I prevent stress during the fattening process?
To prevent stress, maintain a calm environment, keep a stable routine, and minimize disturbances and disruptions in their living space.
7. What is the ideal starting age for Molar ducks in a fattening cycle?
Molar ducks typically begin their fattening cycle as day-old ducklings, allowing for maximum growth potential throughout the 60-day period.
8. What type of housing is best for Molar ducks during fattening?
Provide well-ventilated housing with adequate space (at least 0.5 square meters per duck), clean bedding, and protection from extreme weather conditions.
9. How much water do Molar ducks need during the fattening cycle?
Molar ducks require constant access to fresh, clean water. They typically consume 2-3 times more water than feed by weight.
10. Can Molar ducks be raised alongside other duck breeds?
While possible, it's generally recommended to raise Molar ducks separately due to their different growth rates and feeding requirements compared to other breeds.
11. What are the optimal temperature ranges for Molar duck fattening?
Young ducklings need 32-35°C in the first week, gradually decreasing by 3°C weekly until reaching ambient temperature around week 4.
12. How often should I feed Molar ducks during the fattening cycle?
In the first two weeks, feed 4-5 times daily. After that, 2-3 times daily is sufficient, with feed always available for optimal growth.
13. What protein percentage should the feed contain?
Starter feed should contain 20-22% protein for the first 3 weeks, then switch to grower feed with 16-18% protein for the remainder of the cycle.
14. Are there any special vaccinations required for Molar ducks?
While Molar ducks have strong immunity, basic vaccinations against duck plague and duck viral hepatitis are recommended, especially in commercial operations.
15. How do I know when Molar ducks are ready for market?
Ducks are typically ready at 60 days when they reach 3-4 kg body weight with good meat-to-bone ratio and proper muscling.